Colonoscopy Laxative: Early Mixing, Risky Business?

Colonoscopy laxatives are used to clean out your bowels before a colonoscopy, so doctors can see inside your colon. Colonoscopy prep kits are oral laxatives that you drink the night before your procedure. They are available over the counter or by prescription and typically come in powder form to be mixed with water. It is important to follow the instructions for your laxative carefully, including the timing, to ensure your colonoscopy is not cancelled or rescheduled.

Laxatives are necessary to clean out your bowels so your doctor can see the inside of your colon

Laxatives: Necessary for a Clear View of Your Colon

To ensure a successful colonoscopy, it is essential to adequately prepare your bowels beforehand. This typically involves using a laxative formula, also known as a bowel prep kit, which you will need to take orally the night before your procedure. The laxative will induce bowel movements, helping to clear out your colon.

There are several types of bowel prep kits available, and your healthcare provider can help you choose the most suitable option. These kits typically include osmotic laxatives, which trigger your bowels to draw in more water, softening your stools and increasing the volume in your colon. This triggers muscle contractions, known as peristalsis, that move everything out.

It is important to follow the instructions provided with your chosen bowel prep kit carefully. In most cases, you will need to drink a specific amount of the laxative formula at a designated time, usually the night before your procedure. You may also be instructed to adjust your diet in the days leading up to the colonoscopy, typically by reducing your fiber intake and switching to a clear liquid diet.

While the process of preparing for a colonoscopy can be unpleasant and inconvenient, it is crucial for ensuring an effective procedure. A clear colon allows your doctor to thoroughly examine the inside of your colon and identify any potential issues. Remember, colonoscopies can save lives, so don't skip this necessary step!

You may need to adjust your diet a few days before your colonoscopy

Preparing for a colonoscopy involves a process called colonoscopy preparation, which could begin a few days ahead of time. This process is essential for the success of the procedure. It involves strong laxatives and changes to your diet in the days leading up to the procedure.

You will need to adjust your diet a few days before your colonoscopy. Instructions may vary, but generally, you’ll eat a low-fibre diet for two or three days, followed by a clear liquid diet on the last day.

• Eat smaller portions and low-fibre foods a few days before your colonoscopy. Eating lighter-coloured foods is also recommended.
• Avoid nuts and seeds (including wraps and breads containing them).
• Avoid corn, peas, apple skins, and other fibre-filled foods that are hard to digest.
• Avoid anything bright red in colour.
• Decrease the size of your meals a few days before starting colonoscopy prep.
• The day before your colonoscopy, stick to a liquid diet – i.e., no solid foods.
• Choose treats for the liquid diet, such as organic low-sodium broth, Jell-O (not red, orange, or purple), Martinelli’s Gold MedalⓇ apple juice, flavoured sparkling water, 7-UPⓇ or SpriteⓇ, and black coffee (without creamer).
• Avoid liquids with red, orange, and purple dyes as these may look like traces of blood during the colonoscopy and can interfere with getting accurate results.

You will need to take laxatives at specific times

To prepare for a colonoscopy, you will need to take laxatives at specific times. This process, known as colonoscopy preparation, is essential to ensure the success of the procedure. Colonoscopy prep typically involves the use of strong laxatives and dietary changes in the days leading up to the colonoscopy.

The timing of when to take laxatives will depend on the type of laxative and the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. In some cases, you may need to take laxatives multiple times, such as the evening before and the morning of the procedure. It is important to follow the schedule provided by your healthcare provider to ensure that your bowels are completely cleared, allowing for a more successful colonoscopy.

The type of laxative you use will also depend on the recommendations of your healthcare provider. There are several types of laxatives available, including oral laxatives in the form of powders or liquids, and suppositories. Oral laxatives are typically taken with large volumes of water, and they may include electrolytes to help maintain hydration.

During the colonoscopy preparation process, it is important to adjust your diet. This typically involves eating light, low-fiber foods that are easy to digest and leave your system quickly. It is recommended to avoid raw fruits and vegetables, whole kernel corn, whole grains, seeds, nuts, and popcorn. Additionally, it is important to stay hydrated by drinking clear liquids such as sports drinks, juices, and broths. However, it is crucial to avoid red, purple, or orange liquids as they can discolour the lining of the colon and impact the accuracy of the colonoscopy results.

Overall, it is crucial to follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider for taking laxatives and preparing for the colonoscopy. This will ensure the success of the procedure and provide a more comfortable experience for you.

You may experience side effects from the laxatives

It is important to follow the instructions provided by your doctor when preparing for a colonoscopy. Laxatives are an essential part of the process, as they help to clear your bowels so that your doctor can see inside your colon clearly. While laxatives are generally safe, they can sometimes cause side effects. Here are some possible side effects you may experience from taking laxatives during your colonoscopy preparation:

• Diarrhea: Laxatives stimulate your bowels, leading to frequent and forceful diarrhea. This is a normal effect of the laxatives and is necessary to empty your colon.
• Cramps and bloating: You may experience abdominal cramps and bloating due to the increased bowel activity and the laxative's effect on your digestive system.
• Hemorrhoid irritation: If you have hemorrhoids, the frequent bowel movements and diarrhea may irritate them, causing discomfort or pain.
• Nausea and vomiting: The large volume of liquid and the taste of the laxative solution can trigger nausea and, in some cases, vomiting. It is important to try to manage these side effects and continue with the laxative preparation as best you can.
• Electrolyte imbalances: Laxatives can cause a rapid loss of fluids and electrolytes, leading to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. This is why it is crucial to stay hydrated and follow your doctor's recommendations for fluid intake during the preparation process.
• Skin irritation: The frequent bowel movements can cause skin irritation around the anus, leading to itching, burning, or discomfort. Applying petroleum jelly or ointments can help prevent and soothe this irritation.

Remember, it is essential to consult your doctor if you have any concerns or experience severe side effects. They can provide guidance and advice on managing these side effects and ensuring a successful colonoscopy preparation.

You should follow instructions carefully to ensure a successful colonoscopy

Preparing for a colonoscopy can be an uncomfortable and inconvenient process, but it is crucial for ensuring the procedure's success and can even save your life. Here are some detailed instructions to follow for a successful colonoscopy:

Plan Your Prep

Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to prepare for your colonoscopy, including the timing and type of laxative to use. Read these instructions carefully and well in advance, and don't hesitate to contact your doctor if you have any questions. Clear your schedule for the day of the colonoscopy and arrange for someone to accompany you. Shop for any necessary supplies, such as laxatives, sports drinks, juices, and broths.

Tweak Your Diet

It is essential to empty your bowels so that your doctor can clearly see inside your colon. In the days leading up to the procedure, adjust your diet by eating light, low-fiber foods that are easy to digest. Recommended foods include white bread, pasta, well-cooked vegetables without skin, fruit without skin or seeds, and lean meats. Avoid seeds, nuts, corn, broccoli, cabbage, beans, and peas. Stop taking vitamins, supplements, and certain medications as advised by your doctor.

The day before your colonoscopy, consume only clear liquids such as sports drinks, clear juices (apple or white grape), clear broth, soda, black coffee or tea, gelatin, and ice pops. Avoid red, blue, or purple-coloured foods and drinks as they can discolour the colon lining and hinder the doctor's view.

Timing of Laxative

The timing of taking the laxative is critical. You will typically drink the laxative in two doses. The first dose is usually taken in the evening before your colonoscopy, and the second dose is taken a few hours before your appointment. Follow the schedule provided by your doctor carefully. The laxative will induce frequent diarrhoea, so stay near a bathroom. You may experience cramps, bloating, and irritation.

Additional Tips

• Mix the laxative with flavoured drinks or powdered drink mixes to improve the taste.
• Keep the laxative chilled.
• Drink the solution through a straw placed at the back of your tongue.
• Follow each sip with something tasty to improve the taste.
• Suck on a lemon slice or hard candy after drinking.
• Apply diaper cream before the diarrhoea starts to prevent irritation.
• Use moist or medicated wipes for cleaning.
• If you're concerned about accidents, consider wearing adult diapers and pack extra clothes.
• If you feel nauseous or vomit, take a short break and drink slowly.

Remember, it is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and complete the entire prep process. A successful colonoscopy depends on a clear view of your colon, which can only be achieved through proper preparation.

Frequently asked questions